When faced with choosing the right countertop for your home, you have a lot of decisions to make, from color to cut to finish. But before all that, you have to choose between engineered or natural stone countertops. They vary in their composition and fabrication. While engineered stone like quartz is man-made using synthetic and natural materials, natural stone comes directly from natural stone quarries very deep inside the earth.
Engineered Stone: Pros
Variety
You have a lot of options with engineered stone, which comes in a range of different styles and colors thanks to various natural stone fragments as well as added colorants. Engineered stone can be made to resemble other natural stones such as marble and granite, right down to the texture.
Durability
Highly durable, engineered stone is hard and resistant to cracks, cuts and scratches. It’s also non-porous, which means it’s easy to clean and prevent staining. Plus, it’s heat resistant, and won’t melt or scorch on contact with high temperatures.
Cost Efficiency
Man-made stone gives off the appearance of natural stone yet at a lower price. It is lower in maintenance, too, thanks to its low porosity and durability. This means you don’t have to worry about sealing and repairing your counters over time.
Engineered Stone: Cons
Uniformity
While engineered stone is available in a variety of styles, it is quite consistent, with fewer unique elements and qualities. Natural stone slabs, on the other hand, are one-of-a-kind.
Natural Stone: Pros
Luxurious Appearance
The unique appearance of natural stone can’t be fully replicated. Its texture and variation brings a warmth and elegance to your space that no man-made stone can truly achieve.
Long-Lasting
When maintained properly, natural stone is extremely durable and can last a lifetime. Regular sealing will keep staining, bacteria and scratches at bay, helping you save time and money on replacements and repairs.
Eco-Friendly
If sustainability is important to you, you should opt for natural stone. Naturally-sourced stone is quarried right from the Earth, which conserves resources, prevents pollution and minimizes waste – unlike manmade stone.
Natural Stone: Cons
Higher Cost
The luxurious appearance of natural stone comes at a higher price point. However, this adds to the beauty of your home and longevity of your counters, plus it appeals to homebuyers so you can sell your home at a higher price and within a faster timeframe.
Contact Granite Guy
Need more insight into engineered vs. natural stone? Our granite fabricators in Westwood can help you with this important decision. Get a free quote when you contact us at 508-460-7900 today.